Quality Systems & QC Lead - Welding, Coatings & Compliance

Kernsteel; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Kern Steel Fabrication, Inc. seeks a Quality Systems (QMS) & QC Manager to lead the company-wide Quality Management System across fabrication and coatings operations.

The role requires on-site presence on the shop floor and hands-on leadership to improve processes, reduce rework, and ensure AWS, AISC, ISO and customer quality compliance. You will supervise quality control staff, manage audits and certifications, coordinate with operations and project teams, and drive corrective actions to

Qualifications

• CWI certification required.
• Experience in structural steel fabrication or erection.
• Strong leadership and hands-on supervision on shop floor.
• Familiarity with AWS, AISC, ISO 9001:2015 and coatings standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and continuously improve the Quality Management System across fabrication and coatings operations.
• Oversee quality control personnel and inspection activities on the shop floor and in coatings areas.
• Maintain quality documentation systems (WPS, PQR, welder qualifications, NCRs) and ensure traceability.
• Coordinate welder qualification testing and code compliance with AWS D1.1, AWS D1.8, and related standards.
• Lead internal audits and coordinate external audits and certification activities.
• Serve as primary welding and bolting authority and liaison with inspectors, customers, and certifying bodies.
• Identify, document, investigate, and resolve nonconformances and drive corrective actions.

Skills

Quality management

Quality control

Leadership

On-site supervision

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

AWS Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) certification

Job description

Kern Steel Fabrication, Inc. seeks a Quality Systems (QMS) & QC Manager to lead the company-wide Quality Management System across fabrication and coatings operations.

The role requires on-site presence on the shop floor and hands-on leadership to improve processes, reduce rework, and ensure AWS, AISC, ISO and customer quality compliance. You will supervise quality control staff, manage audits and certifications, coordinate with operations and project teams, and drive corrective actions to